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All I Want for Christmas Is Hugh
Not yet published
Expected 20 Oct 26'A sweet, sassy, singular, insightful Christmas treat' Milly Johnson
When Henrietta Whitaker moves from New Jersey to the beautiful cobbled streets of Chelsea, it is with one goal; to find the Englishman of her dreams and live out her very own rom-com.
Henrietta grew up obsessing over 90's movies, especially those starring the quintessential British actor Hugh Grant. Now she's fully convinced that what she needs in her life is her own floppy-haired Brit. With his eloquent speech, sparkling wit and gentlemanly manners, what girl wouldn't want to date a man like that?
In her local café Henrietta sets eyes on Albert – outrageously dapper and irresistibly charming – and knows that her dreams are coming true. But before she has the chance to sweep Albert off his feet, in lopes a gruff American man – from New Jersey, no less – who seems intent on stealing all of her attention and throwing her rulebook for the perfect romance right out the window.
All I Want for Christmas is Hugh is as funny and feel-good as any Richard Curtis movie. It's a glorious celebration of unlikely love affairs, British rom coms and the joy of finding love in unexpected places.
When Henrietta Whitaker moves from New Jersey to the beautiful cobbled streets of Chelsea, it is with one goal; to find the Englishman of her dreams and live out her very own rom-com.
Henrietta grew up obsessing over 90's movies, especially those starring the quintessential British actor Hugh Grant. Now she's fully convinced that what she needs in her life is her own floppy-haired Brit. With his eloquent speech, sparkling wit and gentlemanly manners, what girl wouldn't want to date a man like that?
In her local café Henrietta sets eyes on Albert – outrageously dapper and irresistibly charming – and knows that her dreams are coming true. But before she has the chance to sweep Albert off his feet, in lopes a gruff American man – from New Jersey, no less – who seems intent on stealing all of her attention and throwing her rulebook for the perfect romance right out the window.
All I Want for Christmas is Hugh is as funny and feel-good as any Richard Curtis movie. It's a glorious celebration of unlikely love affairs, British rom coms and the joy of finding love in unexpected places.
368 pages, Paperback
Expected publication October 22, 2026
About the author
Julia Boggio
9 books56 followersJulia Boggio is a multi-award-winning photographer turned multi-award-winning romance writer. She writes romantic comedies set in the world of professional photography. Her debut book, SHOOTERS, won the Selfie Awards at London Book Fair (2024) as well as gold at the Wishing Shelf Awards. CAMERA SHY won the Shorter Romantic Novel prize at the RNA awards (2025) and her other two books, CHASING THE LIGHT and EXPOSURE!, were shortlisted for Romcom of the Year in 2024 and 2025, respectively. Julia also became an original YouTube star when her Dirty Dancing-inspired first dance sparked a worldwide trend in choreographed first dances. She’s appeared on BBC Woman’s Hour, Richard & Judy, Sky, ITV and BBC news—and The Oprah Winfrey Show where she famously danced with Patrick Swayze. In fact, Julia wrote the Dirty Dancing Mad Libs for Penguin, which is coming out in August 2025. She is originally from New Jersey, but now lives in Wimbledon, UK, with her husband, two kids, and passive-aggressive cat.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Henrietta Whitaker is American photographer that has moved from New jersey and now lives in Chelsea where her favourite 90’s Rom com film was set. She promised her dying mother that she will find a British man of her dreams (especially like Hugh Grant) and marry. But when she sets on her quest. It’s easier said that done. At first, she meets wealthy Albert who is a Lord and fits the criteria to a T. But then she meets moody Graff another American an author and ten years old then her. She senses some sparks fly between them, and he understand what she is going through. As Hen also suffers from FND syndrome which she can get seizures at any time.
Does she stay with Graff or go with the Brit that she has always dreamed of?
All I want for Christmas is Hugh by Julia Boggio is a fun, romantic read and a modern-day twist to a 90’s Rom com. Although set around Christmas it was more of a romance novel then a Christmas one but that didn’t spoil the enjoyment of the story of the two men fighting for Henrietta’s heart. I couldn’t put this done because I enjoyed it so much. 5 stars from me
Does she stay with Graff or go with the Brit that she has always dreamed of?
All I want for Christmas is Hugh by Julia Boggio is a fun, romantic read and a modern-day twist to a 90’s Rom com. Although set around Christmas it was more of a romance novel then a Christmas one but that didn’t spoil the enjoyment of the story of the two men fighting for Henrietta’s heart. I couldn’t put this done because I enjoyed it so much. 5 stars from me
Review of advance copy received from Author
I read this over the summer and have been getting Chrtismassy vibes ever since! Definitely one for reading by a log fire - with the door firmly closed - whilst the kids bicker about whose turn it is on the new Xmas present Nintendo in another room ;-)
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Julia Boggio hat mich mit „All I Want for Christmas Is Hugh“ in eine romantische Winterwelt entführt, die sich für mich wie eine klassische Weihnachts-RomCom angefühlt hat. London, Weihnachtsstimmung, humorvolle Dialoge und eine Liebesgeschichte, die nicht ganz nach Plan verläuft - genau diese Mischung hat mir richtig gut gefallen. Ich hatte beim Lesen oft das Gefühl, einen dieser Filme zu schauen, die man sich jedes Jahr aufs Neue gerne ansieht.
Henrietta war für mich das Herzstück des Buches. Sie zieht von New Jersey nach London, weil sie ihren ganz persönlichen Hugh Grant finden möchte. Schließlich ist sie mit den RomComs der 90er-Jahre aufgewachsen und hat ziemlich genaue Vorstellungen davon, wie ihre große Liebe aussehen soll. Als sie Albert begegnet, scheint ihr Traum endlich wahr zu werden. Er ist britisch, charmant und verkörpert genau den Gentleman, nach dem sie gesucht hat. Doch dann kommt Graff ins Spiel, der mit seiner lauten, grumpy Art so gar nicht in Henriettas romantisches Weltbild passt.
Ich mochte Henrietta unglaublich gerne, auch wenn ich ihre Vorstellungen von der Liebe nicht immer nachvollziehen konnte. Sie ist chaotisch, witzig und herrlich romantisch, hat aber auch eine verletzliche Seite, die sie für mich viel greifbarer gemacht hat. Besonders schön fand ich ihre Entwicklung. Sie muss erkennen, dass das echte Leben nun einmal keinem Drehbuch folgt und der vermeintlich perfekte Mann nicht automatisch derjenige ist, der einen glücklich macht. Dabei geht es nicht darum, ihre romantische Seite abzulegen, sondern vielmehr darum, herauszufinden, was sie selbst wirklich will. Gerade dieser Gedanke hat mir an der Geschichte gefallen.
Mit Albert bin ich dagegen von Anfang an nicht richtig warm geworden. Für mich war ziemlich schnell klar, dass Graff derjenige ist, der Henriettas Herz wirklich erobern könnte. Obwohl er zunächst alles andere als ein Traummann wirkt, steckt hinter seiner grumpy Fassade viel mehr. Die Dynamik zwischen ihm und Henrietta war für mich eines der Highlights. Ich habe ihre Gespräche, die kleinen Sticheleien und die Momente geliebt, in denen deutlich wurde, wie gut die beiden eigentlich zusammenpassen. Während Henrietta bei Albert versucht, ihrem Idealbild gerecht zu werden, kann sie bei Graff viel mehr sie selbst sein. Genau diese Entwicklung hat mich beim Lesen mitfiebern lassen.
Was ich außerdem richtig gelungen fand, ist die Mischung aus Leichtigkeit und emotionaler Tiefe. Natürlich stehen Romantik und Humor im Vordergrund, aber die Geschichte beschäftigt sich auch mit familiären Beziehungen, Verlust und den Erwartungen, die wir an uns selbst und unser Leben stellen. Henriettas Vergangenheit und ihre gesundheitliche Situation geben der Handlung eine zusätzliche Ebene, die ich so nicht unbedingt erwartet hatte. Besonders die Frage, wie sehr unsere Vorstellungen von Liebe durch Filme geprägt sind und ob wir dadurch manchmal an den falschen Dingen festhalten, fand ich spannend. Das verleiht der Geschichte eine schöne Botschaft, ohne dass sie ihren unterhaltsamen Charakter verliert.
Die weihnachtliche Atmosphäre, das romantische Setting und der Bezug zu den großen Liebeskomödien meiner Meinung nach perfekt miteinander harmoniert. Ich hätte mir stellenweise zwar noch etwas mehr Weihnachtszauber gewünscht, aber insgesamt kam für mich definitiv dieses gemütliche Gefühl auf, das ich bei einer Weihnachtsromance suche. Der lockere, humorvolle Schreibstil hat zusätzlich dafür gesorgt, dass ich gut durch die Geschichte gekommen bin.
Insgesamt war „All I Want for Christmas Is Hugh“ für mich eine charmante, humorvolle Weihnachtsromance mit London-Flair, einer tollen Dynamik zwischen den Hauptfiguren und einer schönen Botschaft. Ich mochte besonders den Gedanken, dass die Liebe nicht immer so aussehen muss, wie wir sie uns ausmalen, und dass wir manchmal erst dann unser Glück finden, wenn wir aufhören, unser Leben nach einem festen Plan auszurichten. Eine klare Leseempfehlung für alle, die romantische Komödien, weihnachtliche Stimmung und Liebesgeschichten mit Herz und Humor lieben.
Henrietta war für mich das Herzstück des Buches. Sie zieht von New Jersey nach London, weil sie ihren ganz persönlichen Hugh Grant finden möchte. Schließlich ist sie mit den RomComs der 90er-Jahre aufgewachsen und hat ziemlich genaue Vorstellungen davon, wie ihre große Liebe aussehen soll. Als sie Albert begegnet, scheint ihr Traum endlich wahr zu werden. Er ist britisch, charmant und verkörpert genau den Gentleman, nach dem sie gesucht hat. Doch dann kommt Graff ins Spiel, der mit seiner lauten, grumpy Art so gar nicht in Henriettas romantisches Weltbild passt.
Ich mochte Henrietta unglaublich gerne, auch wenn ich ihre Vorstellungen von der Liebe nicht immer nachvollziehen konnte. Sie ist chaotisch, witzig und herrlich romantisch, hat aber auch eine verletzliche Seite, die sie für mich viel greifbarer gemacht hat. Besonders schön fand ich ihre Entwicklung. Sie muss erkennen, dass das echte Leben nun einmal keinem Drehbuch folgt und der vermeintlich perfekte Mann nicht automatisch derjenige ist, der einen glücklich macht. Dabei geht es nicht darum, ihre romantische Seite abzulegen, sondern vielmehr darum, herauszufinden, was sie selbst wirklich will. Gerade dieser Gedanke hat mir an der Geschichte gefallen.
Mit Albert bin ich dagegen von Anfang an nicht richtig warm geworden. Für mich war ziemlich schnell klar, dass Graff derjenige ist, der Henriettas Herz wirklich erobern könnte. Obwohl er zunächst alles andere als ein Traummann wirkt, steckt hinter seiner grumpy Fassade viel mehr. Die Dynamik zwischen ihm und Henrietta war für mich eines der Highlights. Ich habe ihre Gespräche, die kleinen Sticheleien und die Momente geliebt, in denen deutlich wurde, wie gut die beiden eigentlich zusammenpassen. Während Henrietta bei Albert versucht, ihrem Idealbild gerecht zu werden, kann sie bei Graff viel mehr sie selbst sein. Genau diese Entwicklung hat mich beim Lesen mitfiebern lassen.
Was ich außerdem richtig gelungen fand, ist die Mischung aus Leichtigkeit und emotionaler Tiefe. Natürlich stehen Romantik und Humor im Vordergrund, aber die Geschichte beschäftigt sich auch mit familiären Beziehungen, Verlust und den Erwartungen, die wir an uns selbst und unser Leben stellen. Henriettas Vergangenheit und ihre gesundheitliche Situation geben der Handlung eine zusätzliche Ebene, die ich so nicht unbedingt erwartet hatte. Besonders die Frage, wie sehr unsere Vorstellungen von Liebe durch Filme geprägt sind und ob wir dadurch manchmal an den falschen Dingen festhalten, fand ich spannend. Das verleiht der Geschichte eine schöne Botschaft, ohne dass sie ihren unterhaltsamen Charakter verliert.
Die weihnachtliche Atmosphäre, das romantische Setting und der Bezug zu den großen Liebeskomödien meiner Meinung nach perfekt miteinander harmoniert. Ich hätte mir stellenweise zwar noch etwas mehr Weihnachtszauber gewünscht, aber insgesamt kam für mich definitiv dieses gemütliche Gefühl auf, das ich bei einer Weihnachtsromance suche. Der lockere, humorvolle Schreibstil hat zusätzlich dafür gesorgt, dass ich gut durch die Geschichte gekommen bin.
Insgesamt war „All I Want for Christmas Is Hugh“ für mich eine charmante, humorvolle Weihnachtsromance mit London-Flair, einer tollen Dynamik zwischen den Hauptfiguren und einer schönen Botschaft. Ich mochte besonders den Gedanken, dass die Liebe nicht immer so aussehen muss, wie wir sie uns ausmalen, und dass wir manchmal erst dann unser Glück finden, wenn wir aufhören, unser Leben nach einem festen Plan auszurichten. Eine klare Leseempfehlung für alle, die romantische Komödien, weihnachtliche Stimmung und Liebesgeschichten mit Herz und Humor lieben.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
ARC REVIEW- ALL I WANT FOR CHRISTMAS IS HUGH
Stars: ⭐️ ⭐️.75
Spice: 🌶️
Tropes:
🎄Holiday Romance
🎄Grumpy x Sunshine
🎄Age Gap
🎄Love Triangle
🎄Christmas in London
________________________
Thanks to Julia Boggio, Bloomsbury and NetGalley for the ARC! I received an advance copy of the book and am leaving an honest review. All opinions are my own.
________________________
I'll say it, I requested and read this book solely on the title and blurb. A woman obsessed with Hugh Grant and wanting to find her own HEA, rom com style? Color me intrigued! I went into this optimistic and was hooked in the beginning but sadly, it sort of fell apart for me about halfway through.
Henrietta is an American living in Chelsea, London and not so patiently waiting for her own Hugh Grant. Raised by an American father, who she has a tenuous relationship with and an English mother, who told her on her deathbed to "marry an Englishman, promise me," she is dead set on the kind of man she should fall for and won't hear another word about it. She meets Albert, a floppy haired Brit who oozes charm and affability, at her friend's cafe and is immediately smitten. She also encounters Graff, an American writer who she meets when she shows up at his flat to take photographs for his book jacket and upcoming article. She is surprisingly pulled to him as well.
While I know it's a well loved trope in TV and film, especially rom coms, I was disappointed that this contained a love triangle of sorts. I avoid these at all costs, I don't really enjoy them. I was frustrated and annoyed with Hen throughout much of the book, I felt like she acted really immaturely and was so set on fulfilling the promise to her mother, to only marry an Englishman, when she definitely had feelings and was falling for her fellow American Graff. The back and forth between Albert and Graff, when one was CLEARLY the superior choice and HOW was this even a question, made me want to put the book down quite often.
I really fell for Graff, despite some of his grumpier moments, he was really just a sweetheart and deeply cared for Hen and wanted to be the one for her. He was the best part of the book, I was often just wishing he would give up on Hen and go find someone who wouldn't be so wishy-washy about their feelings for him.
A couple other issues I had was just HOW BRITISH everything was. Like, I get it, you're in London. I don't need you to name drop every shop, every location. It was just a lot, every time. And the Dream Hugh Grants were way over the top for me and not in a good way. I had quite a bit of eye rolling with that.
That being said, I really enjoyed the detail and care that was taken in depicting Henrietta's chronic illness. I loved how caring Graff was with her and how he really took her struggles and triggers to account and made every effort to be accommodating and careful with her.
Sadly, this one missed the mark for me. I am sure there is an audience out there for this book, especially if you don't mind love triangles. If you're looking for a fun, holiday romance with loads of rom com references and even more about Hugh Grant, give this one a try.
Stars: ⭐️ ⭐️.75
Spice: 🌶️
Tropes:
🎄Holiday Romance
🎄Grumpy x Sunshine
🎄Age Gap
🎄Love Triangle
🎄Christmas in London
________________________
Thanks to Julia Boggio, Bloomsbury and NetGalley for the ARC! I received an advance copy of the book and am leaving an honest review. All opinions are my own.
________________________
I'll say it, I requested and read this book solely on the title and blurb. A woman obsessed with Hugh Grant and wanting to find her own HEA, rom com style? Color me intrigued! I went into this optimistic and was hooked in the beginning but sadly, it sort of fell apart for me about halfway through.
Henrietta is an American living in Chelsea, London and not so patiently waiting for her own Hugh Grant. Raised by an American father, who she has a tenuous relationship with and an English mother, who told her on her deathbed to "marry an Englishman, promise me," she is dead set on the kind of man she should fall for and won't hear another word about it. She meets Albert, a floppy haired Brit who oozes charm and affability, at her friend's cafe and is immediately smitten. She also encounters Graff, an American writer who she meets when she shows up at his flat to take photographs for his book jacket and upcoming article. She is surprisingly pulled to him as well.
While I know it's a well loved trope in TV and film, especially rom coms, I was disappointed that this contained a love triangle of sorts. I avoid these at all costs, I don't really enjoy them. I was frustrated and annoyed with Hen throughout much of the book, I felt like she acted really immaturely and was so set on fulfilling the promise to her mother, to only marry an Englishman, when she definitely had feelings and was falling for her fellow American Graff. The back and forth between Albert and Graff, when one was CLEARLY the superior choice and HOW was this even a question, made me want to put the book down quite often.
I really fell for Graff, despite some of his grumpier moments, he was really just a sweetheart and deeply cared for Hen and wanted to be the one for her. He was the best part of the book, I was often just wishing he would give up on Hen and go find someone who wouldn't be so wishy-washy about their feelings for him.
A couple other issues I had was just HOW BRITISH everything was. Like, I get it, you're in London. I don't need you to name drop every shop, every location. It was just a lot, every time. And the Dream Hugh Grants were way over the top for me and not in a good way. I had quite a bit of eye rolling with that.
That being said, I really enjoyed the detail and care that was taken in depicting Henrietta's chronic illness. I loved how caring Graff was with her and how he really took her struggles and triggers to account and made every effort to be accommodating and careful with her.
Sadly, this one missed the mark for me. I am sure there is an audience out there for this book, especially if you don't mind love triangles. If you're looking for a fun, holiday romance with loads of rom com references and even more about Hugh Grant, give this one a try.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Click here to read my full review.
“I’m just a huge fan, looking for my own Hugh Grant — you know, someone who’s charming, polite, gentlemanly, elegant, suave, handsome, humble, intelligent, noble, refined, funny, sophisticated and, most importantly, British. Is that too much to ask?”
If you think Hugh Grant only plays awkwardly charming Englishmen, you evidently haven’t seen the film CLOUD ATLAS. In it, Grant portrays six characters, including a post-apocalyptic cannibal chieftain and a Korean man, or at least a makeup artist’s confused attempt at the latter: Grant looks less “Asian” and more “botched facelift”.
Henrietta Whitaker, this novel’s Hugh Grant-obsessed heroine, dreams about his movie characters giving her relationship advice (“Only once has he shown up as an Oompa Loompa,” she tells us). Fortunately or unfortunately, she never discusses her romantic woes with Grant’s tattoo-covered, machete-waving cannibal chief.
An American who’s obsessed over Richard Curtis rom-coms all her life, Henrietta moved to London to meet a Brit just like Hugh Grant. She seemingly finds him in the form of dashing aristocrat Albert Neville. Except she also meets loud, grumpy Graff Holden, an American who’s the exact opposite of her type…or is he?
I’m admittedly not its target reader. I sincerely cannot envision finding the British uniquely attractive, and I think Hugh Grant’s sexiest quality is his support for reforming press regulation. Maybe that’s why my mind drifted while reading—towards the realisation that, probably unintentionally, it echoes a great 19th-century novel’s themes, similarities that illuminate the strengths and flaws of both works...
Continue reading here...
“I’m just a huge fan, looking for my own Hugh Grant — you know, someone who’s charming, polite, gentlemanly, elegant, suave, handsome, humble, intelligent, noble, refined, funny, sophisticated and, most importantly, British. Is that too much to ask?”
If you think Hugh Grant only plays awkwardly charming Englishmen, you evidently haven’t seen the film CLOUD ATLAS. In it, Grant portrays six characters, including a post-apocalyptic cannibal chieftain and a Korean man, or at least a makeup artist’s confused attempt at the latter: Grant looks less “Asian” and more “botched facelift”.
Henrietta Whitaker, this novel’s Hugh Grant-obsessed heroine, dreams about his movie characters giving her relationship advice (“Only once has he shown up as an Oompa Loompa,” she tells us). Fortunately or unfortunately, she never discusses her romantic woes with Grant’s tattoo-covered, machete-waving cannibal chief.
An American who’s obsessed over Richard Curtis rom-coms all her life, Henrietta moved to London to meet a Brit just like Hugh Grant. She seemingly finds him in the form of dashing aristocrat Albert Neville. Except she also meets loud, grumpy Graff Holden, an American who’s the exact opposite of her type…or is he?
I’m admittedly not its target reader. I sincerely cannot envision finding the British uniquely attractive, and I think Hugh Grant’s sexiest quality is his support for reforming press regulation. Maybe that’s why my mind drifted while reading—towards the realisation that, probably unintentionally, it echoes a great 19th-century novel’s themes, similarities that illuminate the strengths and flaws of both works...
Continue reading here...
Review of advance copy received from Author
Review of advance copy received from Author
I absolutely adored reading this book. I almost wish I could read it for the first time all over again! (and I will be reading it again over the Christmas holidays!) I couldn’t wait to see what happened next. Julia has such skill and style to write such well-developed characters that you can't help but root for them.
It’s a feel-good, Christmas-themed story set in Chelsea. It's very visual and has the flavour of British rom-com charm. We open with our female lead, Henrietta (Henri) Winkle, who is a photographer from New Jersey living in Chelsea. And our Henri is on the lookout for the perfect British gentleman who charms her as did a certain actor who charmed millions in British romantic classics. Of course, while she is trying to pin down this certain someone, in comes the man who is her perfect match: Mr. Graff Holden, a brilliant but cynical American author nursing a wounded ego. I do love a grumpy vs. sunshine trope.
And let me just say, Graff is one of the best book boyfriends EVER. I just loved him all the way through. The sweet, funny chemistry between the leads is marvellous. Their snappy, fast-paced dialogue and playful, intimate banter is wonderful to read.
The book also has a great cast of supporting characters who bring the festive Chelsea setting to life. From Henri's fun and supportive friends at the Queen's Beans café to a quirky group of romance novelists at a black-tie publishing gala, there are a lot of humorous moments in the book.
It's a gorgeous read about breaking free from the ghosts of the past and embracing new beginnings. A deeply satisfying holiday romance that will leave you smiling long after the final page. And let me say again—GRAFF is one of the best book boyfriends ever!
I absolutely adored reading this book. I almost wish I could read it for the first time all over again! (and I will be reading it again over the Christmas holidays!) I couldn’t wait to see what happened next. Julia has such skill and style to write such well-developed characters that you can't help but root for them.
It’s a feel-good, Christmas-themed story set in Chelsea. It's very visual and has the flavour of British rom-com charm. We open with our female lead, Henrietta (Henri) Winkle, who is a photographer from New Jersey living in Chelsea. And our Henri is on the lookout for the perfect British gentleman who charms her as did a certain actor who charmed millions in British romantic classics. Of course, while she is trying to pin down this certain someone, in comes the man who is her perfect match: Mr. Graff Holden, a brilliant but cynical American author nursing a wounded ego. I do love a grumpy vs. sunshine trope.
And let me just say, Graff is one of the best book boyfriends EVER. I just loved him all the way through. The sweet, funny chemistry between the leads is marvellous. Their snappy, fast-paced dialogue and playful, intimate banter is wonderful to read.
The book also has a great cast of supporting characters who bring the festive Chelsea setting to life. From Henri's fun and supportive friends at the Queen's Beans café to a quirky group of romance novelists at a black-tie publishing gala, there are a lot of humorous moments in the book.
It's a gorgeous read about breaking free from the ghosts of the past and embracing new beginnings. A deeply satisfying holiday romance that will leave you smiling long after the final page. And let me say again—GRAFF is one of the best book boyfriends ever!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to NetGalley and Julia for an eARC in exchange for my honest review!
Firstly, I think it’s important to note that as a person I love Christmas and I love romance.
This novel pulls hallmark level romance together with Christmas in a neat little bow.
Henrietta is obsessed with England, Hugh Grant, and the perfect Christmas romance (who can blame her); so she is devastated to find her feelings developing for the obnoxious American from New Jersey - just like her. Talk about small world. While Hen and Graff get on like a house on fire, Hen finds herself trying to force her perfect connection with (as Graff calls him) Posh Twat. But you can’t force connection.
The tension between Hen and Graff, and their obvious reluctance for their mutual feelings had me hooked, along with their banter and immediate inside jokes. Literal chemistry that was jumping out of the pages.
My only gripe, and this is extremely personal and maybe even to a petty level, was the excessive English stuff. The English phrases, the emphasis on English everything. As a Brit, it just felt a bit much. We don’t say half the stuff she focused on, and it felt very much “an American watched a few British movies and that’s how they understand England”. Which makes sense for the character, but also she’s supposedly lived in London for the best part of her adult life… so you’d assume there’d be a bit of growth from that mindset. It was just a bit much. But once you look past the quirk, the book was solid.
Potentially if it was a bit toned down… maybe pushing a 5* for me.
Firstly, I think it’s important to note that as a person I love Christmas and I love romance.
This novel pulls hallmark level romance together with Christmas in a neat little bow.
Henrietta is obsessed with England, Hugh Grant, and the perfect Christmas romance (who can blame her); so she is devastated to find her feelings developing for the obnoxious American from New Jersey - just like her. Talk about small world. While Hen and Graff get on like a house on fire, Hen finds herself trying to force her perfect connection with (as Graff calls him) Posh Twat. But you can’t force connection.
The tension between Hen and Graff, and their obvious reluctance for their mutual feelings had me hooked, along with their banter and immediate inside jokes. Literal chemistry that was jumping out of the pages.
My only gripe, and this is extremely personal and maybe even to a petty level, was the excessive English stuff. The English phrases, the emphasis on English everything. As a Brit, it just felt a bit much. We don’t say half the stuff she focused on, and it felt very much “an American watched a few British movies and that’s how they understand England”. Which makes sense for the character, but also she’s supposedly lived in London for the best part of her adult life… so you’d assume there’d be a bit of growth from that mindset. It was just a bit much. But once you look past the quirk, the book was solid.
Potentially if it was a bit toned down… maybe pushing a 5* for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I will admit to this being my first Julia Boggia book, though her previous novels are on my TBR.
Early autumn, and reading about Christmas, with a Hugh Grant twist, gave me British Hallmark vibes!
Henrietta, or Hen, is on the lookout for a real British gentleman to romance her and sweep her off her feet, hopefully with the looks and demeanour of the aforementioned Hugh Grant - partly because of a promise made at a critical time.
Hen has an invisible disability, FND, something I hadn't ever heard of, so this was a mini education in itself. She likes to work from a specific cafe, where she has her 'people' who know her, and her condition, and they all want the best for her.
She is an American photographer living in London and tasked with getting a good headshot of a rather grumpy American author, Graff. He's moody, gruff, but hot. If only things weren't so complicated in the world of Hen.
When a 'perfect' Lord, Albert, walks into the cafe she frequents, the idea of him really does sweep her off her feet, she is confused, but follows her brain, when he shows interest in her, though her heart may be thinking something else...
Okay, so there are the Hallmark vibes here, and though I can confess to not being a big Hugh Grant fan, I can appreciate that for a huge period (namely the 90s), he was that quintessential English hero in all the major movies, so this is a cute/comical addition to the story, especially as Hugh, in different character forms, manages to encroach upon the story regularly.
A cute, funny read with British heart and American soul.
Early autumn, and reading about Christmas, with a Hugh Grant twist, gave me British Hallmark vibes!
Henrietta, or Hen, is on the lookout for a real British gentleman to romance her and sweep her off her feet, hopefully with the looks and demeanour of the aforementioned Hugh Grant - partly because of a promise made at a critical time.
Hen has an invisible disability, FND, something I hadn't ever heard of, so this was a mini education in itself. She likes to work from a specific cafe, where she has her 'people' who know her, and her condition, and they all want the best for her.
She is an American photographer living in London and tasked with getting a good headshot of a rather grumpy American author, Graff. He's moody, gruff, but hot. If only things weren't so complicated in the world of Hen.
When a 'perfect' Lord, Albert, walks into the cafe she frequents, the idea of him really does sweep her off her feet, she is confused, but follows her brain, when he shows interest in her, though her heart may be thinking something else...
Okay, so there are the Hallmark vibes here, and though I can confess to not being a big Hugh Grant fan, I can appreciate that for a huge period (namely the 90s), he was that quintessential English hero in all the major movies, so this is a cute/comical addition to the story, especially as Hugh, in different character forms, manages to encroach upon the story regularly.
A cute, funny read with British heart and American soul.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
It might be June, but this is my second Christmas book of the month and I'm loving this trend! The book was funny, witty, and overall a feel-good romance. Christmas wasn't as prominent in all parts of the book, but showed up here and there. I loved Henri's character development and how she slowly realised that the plan she had made for herself for the future - based on a promise - wasn't going to make her happy and that she needed to make her own choices. The Hugh Grant interludes were funny and helped Henri along in her journey to finding her dream man (not dream Hugh though :)). The way the author sheds light on Henri's functional neurological disorder was delicate and well-written and as someone who had never heard of it before, I can say that I understand it a lot more and I think this book is great representation. The way Graff from the first moment is so considerate and just all around caring for Henri's needs has me completely swooning. He is for sure a grump at times, but he has such a soft spot for Henri and I just love them together. There is definitely some drama before they get their happy ever after, but as someone who is a certified drama enthusiast, I highly enjoyed that!
All around a great Christmas read (or any other time of the year, really).
Thank you Bloomsbury for the ARC!
All around a great Christmas read (or any other time of the year, really).
Thank you Bloomsbury for the ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was lucky to receive an Advance Review Copy of ‘All I want for Christmas is Hugh.’
As soon as I started reading, I didn’t want to put it down! It’s sparkling and fun and touching. The main character, Henrietta, is starry-eyed about her dream of marrying an Englishman like the ‘Hugh’ of her dreams. The last thing she wants is to get tangled up with Graff, the brooding American novelist she had a meet-hate with in her favourite coffee shop. Especially since she’s just met Albert, posh and flirtatious, who has a country estate.
I adore a grumpy-sunshine Romance, with all the misunderstandings and clashing outlooks, so loved seeing Henri - with her shiny optimism - gradually getting to Graff and bringing out his playful side as they tease each other, debating which is the better place to live: UK or USA? Henri soon learns just how wrong her first impression of Graff is.
I also enjoyed the story’s Christmassy backdrop - all the seasonal touches made me wish for mince pie season! I’ve pre-ordered the paperback and will be reading this again nearer to Christmas. It’s heartfelt and fun, and made me laugh out loud. The story that gave me that warm happy ‘I just read a fabulous book’ feeling.
As soon as I started reading, I didn’t want to put it down! It’s sparkling and fun and touching. The main character, Henrietta, is starry-eyed about her dream of marrying an Englishman like the ‘Hugh’ of her dreams. The last thing she wants is to get tangled up with Graff, the brooding American novelist she had a meet-hate with in her favourite coffee shop. Especially since she’s just met Albert, posh and flirtatious, who has a country estate.
I adore a grumpy-sunshine Romance, with all the misunderstandings and clashing outlooks, so loved seeing Henri - with her shiny optimism - gradually getting to Graff and bringing out his playful side as they tease each other, debating which is the better place to live: UK or USA? Henri soon learns just how wrong her first impression of Graff is.
I also enjoyed the story’s Christmassy backdrop - all the seasonal touches made me wish for mince pie season! I’ve pre-ordered the paperback and will be reading this again nearer to Christmas. It’s heartfelt and fun, and made me laugh out loud. The story that gave me that warm happy ‘I just read a fabulous book’ feeling.
Review of advance copy received from Author
American photographer Henrietta is a hopeless romantic who lives in Chelsea and is secretly hunting for her ideal guy. She has two non-negotiables: he must be British and must be the modern-day equivalent of Hugh Grant in his 1990s romcoms.
A tall order you might think, until sexy Englishman Albert strolls into Henri’s favourite coffee shop, but so too does 100% gruff American, Graff Holden, who is the epitome of grumpy sunshine.
Work forces Henri and Graff together and, oh boy, do they rub each other up the wrong way! The sparks fly, but there’s also an unexpected heat. Yet Henri remains determined to find true love with Albert, who ticks all her boxes.
Julia Boggio packs this story with humour and sizzle, with silly moments and tenderness, and with all the glamour of Chelsea and the sparkle of the festive party season. She does fleeting moments of magical realism brilliantly. I won’t give the game away but let’s just say a certain floppy-haired, blue-eyed chap puts in several dream-like appearances as a very entertaining wingman.
I read 'All I Want for Christmas is Hugh' as an Advanced Reader Copy and it was an absolute treat! Put this book on your Christmas list now so your wish may be Granted!
A tall order you might think, until sexy Englishman Albert strolls into Henri’s favourite coffee shop, but so too does 100% gruff American, Graff Holden, who is the epitome of grumpy sunshine.
Work forces Henri and Graff together and, oh boy, do they rub each other up the wrong way! The sparks fly, but there’s also an unexpected heat. Yet Henri remains determined to find true love with Albert, who ticks all her boxes.
Julia Boggio packs this story with humour and sizzle, with silly moments and tenderness, and with all the glamour of Chelsea and the sparkle of the festive party season. She does fleeting moments of magical realism brilliantly. I won’t give the game away but let’s just say a certain floppy-haired, blue-eyed chap puts in several dream-like appearances as a very entertaining wingman.
I read 'All I Want for Christmas is Hugh' as an Advanced Reader Copy and it was an absolute treat! Put this book on your Christmas list now so your wish may be Granted!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I have such mixed feelings about this book. I adored most of it. Seriously, I absolutely loved every second of it… right up to the third act breakup. Until then, I thought the two main characters were the best romcom couple I’ve come across in a while. The story was funny, original and refreshing. I especially loved that the mfc was navigating life with a hidden disability that doesn’t get talked about much, and that her way of coping involved visions of Hugh Grant.
But that breakup. For me, it felt like a huge letdown - really dumb and implausible. I stopped wanting the couple to get together. In fact, I hoped they wouldn’t because it would serve her right for being such an idiot and behaving so awfully towards someone who was so clearly right for her. I actually wanted Henrietta to end up brokenhearted and alone.
The ending sort of made up for it, but not quite. I’ve been generous giving it 4 stars overall considering I very nearly stopped reading altogether, but as the rest of it was so entertaining I felt a high rating was only fair. It would have had an unhesitating 5 if a different obstacle had come between them, one that made me hate Hen less. It does take a really special book to make me so invested, even if I did nearly throw it against the wall.
But that breakup. For me, it felt like a huge letdown - really dumb and implausible. I stopped wanting the couple to get together. In fact, I hoped they wouldn’t because it would serve her right for being such an idiot and behaving so awfully towards someone who was so clearly right for her. I actually wanted Henrietta to end up brokenhearted and alone.
The ending sort of made up for it, but not quite. I’ve been generous giving it 4 stars overall considering I very nearly stopped reading altogether, but as the rest of it was so entertaining I felt a high rating was only fair. It would have had an unhesitating 5 if a different obstacle had come between them, one that made me hate Hen less. It does take a really special book to make me so invested, even if I did nearly throw it against the wall.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I absolutely loved this book! It’s one of those stories that grabs you from the very beginning, and suddenly you realise you’ve been reading for hours because you have to know what happens next.
It’s funny, romantic, warm and wonderfully escapist, with characters that you quickly become invested in. I loved the whole rom-com feel of it, the Christmas setting and, of course, the nods to those classic Hugh Grant films we all know and love.
Julia Boggio has created a story that is genuinely difficult to put down. There are plenty of laughs, a few twists and turns, romance, misunderstandings and those lovely moments that make you smile while you’re reading. It really should be made into a Christmas film; it would be perfect to watch over the Christmas holiday.
For me, it was a real page-turner and exactly the kind of book I want to curl up with. I finished it with that lovely “I wish I hadn’t finished it yet” feeling. But there is a bonus epilogue if you sign up to Julia's newsletter.
If you love feel-good romantic comedies, Christmas, a bit of British rom-com nostalgia and characters you can really root for, put this one on your reading list.
It’s funny, romantic, warm and wonderfully escapist, with characters that you quickly become invested in. I loved the whole rom-com feel of it, the Christmas setting and, of course, the nods to those classic Hugh Grant films we all know and love.
Julia Boggio has created a story that is genuinely difficult to put down. There are plenty of laughs, a few twists and turns, romance, misunderstandings and those lovely moments that make you smile while you’re reading. It really should be made into a Christmas film; it would be perfect to watch over the Christmas holiday.
For me, it was a real page-turner and exactly the kind of book I want to curl up with. I finished it with that lovely “I wish I hadn’t finished it yet” feeling. But there is a bonus epilogue if you sign up to Julia's newsletter.
If you love feel-good romantic comedies, Christmas, a bit of British rom-com nostalgia and characters you can really root for, put this one on your reading list.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This sounded exactly like my kind of read: a festive rom-com with a love story at its heart. On paper, it had all the ingredients for a perfect Christmas novel.
There were definitely elements I enjoyed. Graff was a standout character, and I appreciated how Julia Boggio incorporated a relatively unknown medical condition with sensitivity and care. It was handled thoughtfully rather than being used as a plot device, which I really liked. The settings were charming, and the dream sequences with Hugh Grant added a fun, whimsical touch.
Unfortunately, the book lost me with its repeated focus on the idea of needing to marry an English man because of supposedly quintessentially British traits such as queuing properly, apologising correctly, and similar stereotypes. The comparisons became so frequent that I found myself skimming those sections, as they added little to the plot and quickly became repetitive.
Overall, the story itself was enjoyable, but the constant emphasis on these comparisons was incredibly off-putting and ultimately detracted from my reading experience.
Sadly, this one wasn't for me.
There were definitely elements I enjoyed. Graff was a standout character, and I appreciated how Julia Boggio incorporated a relatively unknown medical condition with sensitivity and care. It was handled thoughtfully rather than being used as a plot device, which I really liked. The settings were charming, and the dream sequences with Hugh Grant added a fun, whimsical touch.
Unfortunately, the book lost me with its repeated focus on the idea of needing to marry an English man because of supposedly quintessentially British traits such as queuing properly, apologising correctly, and similar stereotypes. The comparisons became so frequent that I found myself skimming those sections, as they added little to the plot and quickly became repetitive.
Overall, the story itself was enjoyable, but the constant emphasis on these comparisons was incredibly off-putting and ultimately detracted from my reading experience.
Sadly, this one wasn't for me.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A cosy, easy read, Christmas romcom of a book, especially for lovers of the film Notting Hill (it’s my favourite and can’t be beaten in film or book in my opinion!)
Henrietta (Hen) is an American photographer living in London looking for her perfect English gent to marry after making a promise to her mum before she passed away. We follow Hen as she navigates this pursuit, wanting one thing and believing another. It’s great so see disability (FND) talked about and to see how it is handled from both points of view, and you find yourself rooting for the characters just like you would a film.
It was an enjoyable read. I think as with all romcoms you know where it is headed from the off. If you enjoy romcom books, films or a festive read you’ll enjoy this one!
Thanks to Bloomsbury Publishing and NetGalley for the advance copy.
Henrietta (Hen) is an American photographer living in London looking for her perfect English gent to marry after making a promise to her mum before she passed away. We follow Hen as she navigates this pursuit, wanting one thing and believing another. It’s great so see disability (FND) talked about and to see how it is handled from both points of view, and you find yourself rooting for the characters just like you would a film.
It was an enjoyable read. I think as with all romcoms you know where it is headed from the off. If you enjoy romcom books, films or a festive read you’ll enjoy this one!
Thanks to Bloomsbury Publishing and NetGalley for the advance copy.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
All I want for Christmas is to be left alone, so that I can keep reading Julia Boggio’s brilliant book!
An original, warm, witty romance, perfect for fans of, well, Hugh Grant films!
Not only is the plot page-turning, with characters that I cared about from the first page, Julia shines a light on the condition functional neurological disorder, which I hadn’t been aware of before. Julia skilfully shows that having such a condition doesn’t take anything away from a person – in fact, it makes them a stronger one, who I was rooting for even more than before.
A brilliantly inclusive romance that I’ll be treating everyone to for Christmas!
Thank you to Bloomsbury for the advanced reader copy.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
As a huge fan of the film Love Actually I was anxious to read All I Want for Christmas is Hugh based on the title alone. Well this was such a warm hug of a book, a perfect rom-com to head towards Christmas with.
Henrietta, an American photographer, is living in London in the hope of finding her Hugh, thinking that her ideal man has to have all the assets that she has seen on screen in Hugh Grant and the characters he plays. She thinks she has found him when she meets Albert a real English Lord but where does a grumpy American author called Graff figure in the equation!
This is such a fun book to read, I was rooting for Hen even though, like most people, she was a bit exasperating at times. It has that feel good factor that puts you in a good mood for the rest of the day.
Henrietta, an American photographer, is living in London in the hope of finding her Hugh, thinking that her ideal man has to have all the assets that she has seen on screen in Hugh Grant and the characters he plays. She thinks she has found him when she meets Albert a real English Lord but where does a grumpy American author called Graff figure in the equation!
This is such a fun book to read, I was rooting for Hen even though, like most people, she was a bit exasperating at times. It has that feel good factor that puts you in a good mood for the rest of the day.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Henrietta's mother was English and married and American but was not happy, when she died young she asked Henrietta to promise she would marry an Englishman.
Henrietta moves from the USA to London to find her typical Englishman like Hugh Grant.
In her friend's cafe she meets a lord and is determined to catch him, but she also meets Graff who is an American author and very irritating when she is sent to take photos of him for his recent novel and after having a seizure in front of him they start to bond, but he's American not her romantic Englishman.
Loved the storyline and the humour between Henrietta and Graff, you know what's going to happen and the journey is brilliant.
The neurological disorder is very well portrayed.
A great read I definitely recommend it.
Henrietta moves from the USA to London to find her typical Englishman like Hugh Grant.
In her friend's cafe she meets a lord and is determined to catch him, but she also meets Graff who is an American author and very irritating when she is sent to take photos of him for his recent novel and after having a seizure in front of him they start to bond, but he's American not her romantic Englishman.
Loved the storyline and the humour between Henrietta and Graff, you know what's going to happen and the journey is brilliant.
The neurological disorder is very well portrayed.
A great read I definitely recommend it.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I liked Henrietta and really appreciated how her condition was explored, which gave her character more depth. I also enjoyed the romance and the cosy Christmas setting.
However, the obsession with creating the perfect British rom-com became repetitive, and the dream element was a bit too much for me. My biggest issue was that some of the conflict felt quite childish, especially when the characters themselves had much more interesting layers.
Thank you to Bloomsbury Publishing and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
However, the obsession with creating the perfect British rom-com became repetitive, and the dream element was a bit too much for me. My biggest issue was that some of the conflict felt quite childish, especially when the characters themselves had much more interesting layers.
Thank you to Bloomsbury Publishing and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to receive an Arc of All I Want for Christmas is Hugh.
I did really enjoy the beginning of this book It was fun and was beautifully written, The story pulled me in straight away.
But unfortunately as the story progressed I found myself drifting. The pacing slowed down and I wasn’t as invested in the romance as I was at the start of the read. There were still some sweet moments throughout.
I did really enjoy the beginning of this book It was fun and was beautifully written, The story pulled me in straight away.
But unfortunately as the story progressed I found myself drifting. The pacing slowed down and I wasn’t as invested in the romance as I was at the start of the read. There were still some sweet moments throughout.
August 9, 2026
What a perfect Christmas read!
Thank you to Bloomsbury Publishing Plc, Net Galley and of course the fabulous Julia Boggio for the advanced copy of this beautiful book!
This book is a really funny, feel good, festive story. It’s filled with the 90’s/00’s romcom nostalgia and I was here for every second of it!
I devoured this story in 24 hours and would highly recommend you add it to your Christmas TBR!
Thank you to Bloomsbury Publishing Plc, Net Galley and of course the fabulous Julia Boggio for the advanced copy of this beautiful book!
This book is a really funny, feel good, festive story. It’s filled with the 90’s/00’s romcom nostalgia and I was here for every second of it!
I devoured this story in 24 hours and would highly recommend you add it to your Christmas TBR!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Suffering from FND Henrietta has found romance challenging. A death bed promise to her mum to marry an English man, has Hen living in Chelsea.
Dreaming about Hugh Grant in all of his film roles as her love life advisor.
Meeting two men in quick succession, Graff a grumpy American author, who plans to return to New Jersey and Albert a typical upper class English man, even with a title.
What's a girl to do follow her heart or her life plan?
Cheer Hen on as she tries to decide what she should do.
Dreaming about Hugh Grant in all of his film roles as her love life advisor.
Meeting two men in quick succession, Graff a grumpy American author, who plans to return to New Jersey and Albert a typical upper class English man, even with a title.
What's a girl to do follow her heart or her life plan?
Cheer Hen on as she tries to decide what she should do.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
An entertaining book that kept me engaged right from the first page. Hen is an appealing character with a disability that the author handles sensitively, although there were moments when I was infuriated with her. I loved the Hugh dream sequences. I won’t say too much about the love interest because I don’t want to give the plot away but I was rooting for them from early on. Overall, a fun festive read.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
All I Want for Christmas is Hugh is a lovely, funny romcom with a proper will-they-won't-they story that gives a satisfyingly warm happily-ever-after feeling. It made me want to put the Christmas music on, curl up beside a roaring fire while the snow (or rain!) falls outside, and disappear into something cosy for a few hours. A proper Christmas comfort read.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I was expecting this to be more Christmassy so perhaps the title was misnamed.
It was interesting reading about Hen’s disability and this did turn out to be the deciding factor in choosing who she loved, making it a different plot twist, so well done for that.
An ideal read for anyone who loves Hugh Grant movies.
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC
It was interesting reading about Hen’s disability and this did turn out to be the deciding factor in choosing who she loved, making it a different plot twist, so well done for that.
An ideal read for anyone who loves Hugh Grant movies.
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I love how Julia writes from the heart expertly combining warmth, humour and drama with a delicious pinch of spice. This is the perfect Christmas read. I'm buying copies for all my friends! Highly recommend.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I loved this book! Quirky and fun - I feel in the Christmas spirit already. I really enjoyed the authentic English feel, the characters were well thought through and believable. Would totally recommend.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Henrietta is an american photographer who lives in London and is determined to find her 'Hugh' ... yes, Hugh Grant, that famed english actor encapsulates everything that Henrietta thinks she wants and needs in a partner... and when a real English Lord stumbles into her life, Henrietta thinks she's found him but will it all be derailed by a passionate American!?
The premise of this book is amusing but the 'dream visits' from different Hughs was a step too far for me! The characters are entertaining and it's got a nice, if predictable, story arc. The writing is amusing and easy to digest - it's not overly descriptive and moves with good pace. It's an easy read for the festive season and would be a great gift for any Hugh Grant fan!
The premise of this book is amusing but the 'dream visits' from different Hughs was a step too far for me! The characters are entertaining and it's got a nice, if predictable, story arc. The writing is amusing and easy to digest - it's not overly descriptive and moves with good pace. It's an easy read for the festive season and would be a great gift for any Hugh Grant fan!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy
3,5
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